Introduction
The Wampler Catacombs is a programmable, all-in-one delay and reverb pedal designed to provide a wide range of time-based effects for musicians. This manual provides essential information for setting up, operating, maintaining, and troubleshooting your Catacombs pedal.
Product Overview
The Catacombs pedal integrates 11 popular delay and reverb sounds into a single, intuitive unit. It features studio-quality 48 kHz sampling rate with 24-bit audio conversion, 8 onboard preset locations, and MIDI compatibility for up to 128 total presets.

Figure 1: Front view of the Wampler Catacombs pedal, showing controls for delay and reverb effects, input/output jacks, and footswitches.

Figure 2: Angled view of the Wampler Catacombs pedal, highlighting its compact design and various control knobs.
Setup
Power Requirements
The Wampler Catacombs pedal requires a standard 9V DC power supply (not included) with a center-negative barrel connector. Ensure the power supply provides sufficient current for optimal performance.
Connecting Your Pedal
- Connect your instrument (e.g., guitar) to the MONO IN or STEREO IN jack on the right side of the pedal using a standard 1/4-inch instrument cable.
- Connect the MONO OUT or STEREO OUT jack on the left side of the pedal to your amplifier or next effect pedal.
- Connect the 9V DC power supply to the 9V DC input jack.
- For MIDI control, connect a MIDI cable to the MIDI input.
Operating Instructions
Controls Overview
- Delay Type Knob: Selects between various delay types including Tape, SPC, FTE, BBD, ANLG, and DIGI.
- Reverb Type Knob: Selects between reverb types such as SHMR (Shimmer), PLT (Plate), SPR (Spring), ROOM, and HALL.
- Time/Shimmer Knob: Adjusts the delay time or shimmer intensity depending on the selected effect.
- Feedback/Decay Knob: Controls the number of delay repeats or the reverb decay time.
- Mod Rate Knob: Adjusts the modulation rate for effects with modulation.
- Delay Tone Knob: Shapes the tone of the delay repeats.
- Reverb Tone Knob: Shapes the tone of the reverb effect.
- Bypass/ALT Footswitch: Toggles the effect on/off. Hold to access alternate functions (ALT mode).
- Preset/Save Footswitch: Cycles through presets. Hold to save current settings to a preset location.
- Tap Tempo Footswitch: Taps in the desired delay tempo.
Saving and Recalling Presets
The Catacombs pedal allows for 8 onboard preset locations. To save a preset, adjust the knobs to your desired sound, then press and hold the Preset/Save footswitch until the indicator lights confirm the save. To recall a preset, short press the Preset/Save footswitch to cycle through the saved locations.
Alternate Functions (ALT Mode)
Some knobs have alternate functions accessible by holding the Bypass/ALT footswitch. When in ALT mode, the indicator light will change (e.g., from blue to red as noted in some user feedback), allowing you to adjust secondary parameters. Release the footswitch to return to normal operation.
Maintenance
To ensure the longevity and optimal performance of your Wampler Catacombs pedal, follow these maintenance guidelines:
- Keep the pedal clean by wiping it with a soft, dry cloth. Avoid abrasive cleaners or solvents.
- Store the pedal in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
- Disconnect power when not in use for extended periods.
- Regularly check all cable connections for secure fit.
Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| No sound when pedal is engaged. | Incorrect power supply, faulty cables, incorrect input/output connections. | Verify power supply is 9V DC center-negative. Check all instrument cables. Ensure input is connected to IN and output to OUT. |
| Effect is too subtle or too extreme. | Knobs are set incorrectly, or in ALT mode unintentionally. | Adjust the relevant control knobs (Time, Feedback, Tone). Check if the pedal is in ALT mode and adjust accordingly. |
| Cannot save or recall presets. | Incorrect footswitch operation. | Ensure you are holding the Preset/Save footswitch long enough to save. For recalling, use short presses. |
| Noise or hum. | Ground loop, faulty power supply, interference. | Use an isolated power supply. Try different cables. Ensure proper grounding of all equipment. |
Specifications
- Model: CATACOMBS
- Dimensions: 7.25 x 5.7 x 3.75 inches
- Item Weight: 1.39 pounds
- Power Source: Corded Electric (9V DC, center-negative, power supply not included)
- Signal Format: Analog
- Audio Output Effects: Delay, Reverb
- Sampling Rate: 48 kHz
- Audio Bit Depth: 24-bit
- Presets: 8 onboard, 128 via MIDI
- Manufacture Location: Designed and Built in the USA
Warranty and Support
Wampler Pedals products are designed and built to high standards. For warranty information and technical support, please refer to the official Wampler Pedals website or contact their customer service directly. Keep your proof of purchase for warranty claims.
For further assistance, visit the Wampler Store on Amazon.





